Leadership
Desert Star Leadership
Ryan Vaughn, Principal
Email: rvaughn@chooseAESD.org
Ryan Vaughn has dedicated over 20 years to the Avondale Elementary School District. In that time, he has served as a middle school Social Studies teacher, Master Teacher, Dean of Students, and Assistant Principal. Mr. Vaughn has a degree in Social Studies Education, as well as Masters degrees in Curriculum and Instruction and Teaching English to Students of Other Languages and Administration. Mr. Vaughn is extremely excited and proud to serve as Principal of Desert Star after serving three years as Assistant Principal, and truly believes that all students are capable of success, no exceptions!
Brittany Scheer, Assistant Principal
Email: bscheer@chooseaesd.org
Brittany Scheer proudly serves as assistant principal at Desert Star, bringing over a decade of experience in Arizona public schools and a strong passion for literacy and student success. She began her career as a middle grades reading and language arts teacher before serving as an instructional coach, partnering with teachers and administrators to support student achievement. Ms. Scheer holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and Master’s degrees in Elementary Education and Educational Leadership. She loves being part of the Desert Star family because of its commitment to students and the community, and believes, as Malala Yousafzai said, that “one child, one teacher, one book can change the world.”
Principal's Message
Dear Desert Star Community,
Welcome to Desert Star School, a place where academic excellence, student leadership, and meaningful relationships come together to create an exceptional learning experience for every child. At Desert Star, we are proud to foster a school culture that challenges students to grow academically while also supporting their individual strengths, talents, and passions.
Our dedicated staff is committed to providing rigorous instruction, high expectations, and engaging learning opportunities that prepare students for success both inside and outside the classroom. We celebrate the academic growth of all learners and continue to focus on creating innovative learning experiences that inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence.
A major priority at Desert Star is ensuring that every student receives the support and opportunities they need to thrive. Through our Exceptional Student Services programs, we work collaboratively with families and staff to meet the unique needs of all learners while promoting inclusion, achievement, and student success. We are also proud to expand opportunities for advanced learners through gifted programming that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and academic enrichment.
Beyond academics, we believe leadership development is essential to building strong future citizens. Students at Desert Star are encouraged to participate in a variety of leadership opportunities that help them develop responsibility, character, collaboration, and school pride. Whether through student organizations, campus activities, mentoring opportunities, or service projects, our students are empowered to lead and make a positive impact within our school community.
At Desert Star, we value the partnership between home and school and believe strong relationships with families are key to student success. Thank you for being part of our Scorpion family and for supporting our mission to ensure every student learns, leads, and succeeds. We look forward to another outstanding year of growth, achievement, and celebration together.
With respect,
Mr. Ryan Vaughn, DS Proud Principal
(623) 772-4606
rvaughn@chooseaesd.org